I was diagnosed in 2007, and at the time really should have listened to my parents. Here are the quick, simple things I learned over the years to better deal with the disorder:

- reduce caffeine intake as much as you can
- regular, routine sleep
- reduce alcohol intake
- no drugs
- regular exercise
- tirelessly adjust your meds until they work perfectly
- be weary of doctors 'over-prescribing' meds
- let people in your life know when you're feeling 'off', they're not mind readers
- know your social boundaries and limits, if you need rest, take it
- sedative teas are your friend (lavender, mint, chamomile etc).

These are a few things that I had to learn the hard way over the years, but now that I've been following these rules, things are smooth sailing.

What other tips do you have?